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2017 NBA Draft: Live analysis and tracking rumors, picks, trades for the NBA Draft

By Lukas Harkins

Jun 23, 2016; New York, NY, USA; A general view of the podium and stage before the first round of the 2016 NBA Draft at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerry Lai-USA TODAY Sports
Jun 23, 2016; New York, NY, USA; A general view of the podium and stage before the first round of the 2016 NBA Draft at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerry Lai-USA TODAY Sports /
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Apr 12, 2017; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bulls forward Jimmy Butler (21) reacts during the first half against the Brooklyn Nets at the United Center. Mandatory Credit: Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 12, 2017; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bulls forward Jimmy Butler (21) reacts during the first half against the Brooklyn Nets at the United Center. Mandatory Credit: Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports /

Chicago Bulls

Record in 2016-17: 41-41 (8th in the Eastern Conference)

Draft picks: 7th overall, 38th overall

Jonathan Givony Projections: Jarrett Allen (#16), Frank Jackson (#38)

Lukas Harkins Projections:  John Collins (#16), Kyle Kuzma (#38)

Although the Chicago Bulls were able to make the playoffs this past season, they are in no-man’s-land in the Eastern Conference. They have one star player in Jimmy Butler, but he cannot make a contender all by himself. The rumors about him being moved will come and go throughout the entire draft and free agency until he actually gets moved. With that being said, whether Butler is on the team or not, the Bulls are in need of just about everything. They need shooting, they need depth, they need an identity. At this point, the Bulls will either need to strike gold with their two picks in this draft, or end up trading one of the top assets (such as Butler) in order to find more picks or young, developing players that can make an impact immediately.

#7 overall: PF Lauri Markkanen, Arizona

After trading Jimmy Butler, the Bulls look to the frontcourt for one of the versatile big man who can step out and shoot the three. Markkanen is one of the best shooters in this draft, and at seven feet, he is an incredibly gifted athlete. He should get plenty of playing time in Chicago, but the deal to send Jimmy Butler to Minnesota still seems like a rushed way of getting Butler out at this time. Grade: B-.

To go back to the draft order/selections, click here.

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